Best of the Week: Flow Imaging Microscopy, Electric Vehicles, Air Pollution in India

This week, Spectroscopy published articles highlighting recent studies in several application areas, including pharmaceutical analysis, engineering, and environmental analysis. Key techniques highlighted in these articles include flow imaging microscopy (FIM), micro-particle-induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE) spectroscopy, and near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Happy reading!

An Exclusive Spectroscopy Interview on Flow Imaging Microscopy in Collaboration with the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS), Part 2

In Part 2 of this interview, Austin Daniels, application scientist at Yokogawa Fluid Imaging Technologies, discusses the advantages of flow imaging microscopy (FIM) in pharmaceutical analysis. FIM provides high-resolution images and detailed quantitative data on particle size, shape, and composition, offering clearer differentiation between protein aggregates and contaminants (1). Instruments like FlowCam support regulatory compliance with guidelines such as USP <1787> and <1788>, making FIM a valuable tool in biotherapeutic development (1). Daniels emphasizes how FIM enhances quality control, supports process monitoring, and improves the safety and efficacy of biologics through more accurate subvisible particle characterization in real-world pharmaceutical applications (1).

Fiber Optics and Neural Networks Transform Vehicle Sensing and Road Safety

Researchers at Tongji University have developed an innovative fiber optic sensing system for highly accurate vehicle classification, achieving a 99.4% recognition rate across eight vehicle types (2). This study, which was published in the KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering, shows how the system uses surface-adhered optical fibers that detect light intensity changes from vehicle-induced microbending and how advanced data processing techniques and a neural network model enabled the real-time analysis of vehicle dynamics (2). Unlike traditional sensors, this non-intrusive, cost-effective design ensures easy installation and minimal traffic disruption (2). The system offers promising applications in road maintenance, toll collection, and traffic management, setting a new standard in transportation infrastructure monitoring.

Smart Optical Sensors for Thermal Management in Electric Vehicles

A recent review article in Energies highlights how advanced optical sensors are enhancing thermal management in electric vehicles (EVs), focusing on batteries, motors, and air conditioning systems. Effective thermal control is critical to prevent battery overheating and improve performance (3). Technologies like Fiber Bragg Grating sensors, infrared (IR) sensors, and digital image correlation enable precise, real-time monitoring of temperature and stress (3). The review also explores motor efficiency improvements and humidity sensors for optimizing air conditioning (3). Although current systems offer major benefits, challenges remain. Future research aims to integrate AI, multi-sensor fusion, and predictive tools to further boost EV safety, efficiency, and overall sustainability.

New Study Uses Micro-PIXE Spectroscopy to Trace Pollution Sources in Indian Air Samples

A recent study from the University of North Texas explored the use of micro-particle-induced X-ray emission (micro-PIXE) spectroscopy to trace urban and indoor air pollution sources in India. Published in Nano Micro Small, the research analyzed particulate matter (PM) from Old Delhi and Panjab University using high-resolution proton micro-beam imaging (4). Indoor PM showed elements like silicon, calcium, and potassium, whereas outdoor samples contained sulfur, chromium, and zinc, pointing to industrial and vehicular emissions (4). The team used GeoPIXE software to map elemental patterns, offering detailed insights into pollution origins (4). The study highlights micro-PIXE’s value for non-destructive, precise environmental monitoring.

New Insights into Protein Behavior in Hydrogels Unveiled Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

In a recent study, researchers from Nankai University and Beijing University of Technology used near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to examine how ovalbumin (OVA), a protein found in egg whites, unfolds within PDMAA hydrogels. Led by Xueguang Shao, the team discovered that OVA’s α-helix structure breaks down at low temperatures and that water structure dynamics—specifically a unique “S₂ water”—play a key role in this process (5). This novel water form may facilitate protein transitions by interacting with both the polymer and protein (5). Their findings highlight how advanced spectral techniques can reveal subtle protein-water interactions, offering insights that could improve hydrogel-based drug delivery systems and future biomedical applications.

References

1. Workman, Jr., J. An Exclusive Spectroscopy Interview on Flow Imaging Microscopy in Collaboration with the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS), Part 2. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/an-exclusive-spectroscopy-interview-on-flow-imaging-microscopy-in-collaboration-with-the-american-association-of-pharmaceutical-scientists-aaps-part-2 (accessed 2025-04-09).
2. Workman, Jr., J. Fiber Optics and Neural Networks Transform Vehicle Sensing and Road Safety. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/fiber-optics-and-neural-networks-transform-vehicle-sensing-and-road-safety (accessed 2025-04-09).
3. Workman, Jr., J. Smart Optical Sensors for Thermal Management in Electric Vehicles. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/smart-optical-sensors-for-thermal-management-in-electric-vehicles (accessed 2025-04-09).
4. Wetzel, W. New Study Uses Micro-PIXE Spectroscopy to Trace Pollution Sources in Indian Air Samples. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/new-study-uses-micro-pixe-spectroscopy-to-trace-pollution-sources-in-indian-air-samples (accessed 2025-04-09).
5. Wetzel, W. New Insights into Protein Behavior in Hydrogels Unveiled Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy. Spectroscopy. Available at: https://www.spectroscopyonline.com/view/new-insights-into-protein-behavior-in-hydrogels-unveiled-using-near-infrared-spectroscopy (accessed 2025-04-09).